Which of the following is covalent carbide ?

Options

A. `CaC_(2)`
B. `Al_(4)C_(3)`
C. `SiC`
D. `Be_(2)C`

Answer

To determine which of the given carbides is a covalent carbide, we will analyze each option based on the nature of the bonds formed between the elements involved.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Understanding Ionic vs. Covalent Bonds**:
- Ionic bonds are formed through the transfer of electrons between a metal and a non-metal.
- Covalent bonds are formed through the sharing of electrons between two non-metals or metalloids.

2. **Analyzing Calcium Carbide (CaC₂)**:
- Calcium (Ca) is an alkaline earth metal, and carbon (C) is a non-metal.
- The bond between Ca and C is ionic due to the transfer of electrons from Ca to C.
- **Conclusion**: Calcium carbide is an ionic carbide.

3. **Analyzing Aluminum Carbide (Al₄C₃)**:
- Aluminum (Al) is a metal, and carbon (C) is a non-metal.
- The bond between Al and C is also ionic due to the exchange of electrons.
- **Conclusion**: Aluminum carbide is an ionic carbide.

4. **Analyzing Silicon Carbide (SiC)**:
- Silicon (Si) is a metalloid, and carbon (C) is a non-metal.
- The bond between Si and C involves sharing of electrons, characteristic of covalent bonding.
- Silicon carbide has a tetrahedral crystal structure similar to diamond, indicating strong covalent bonding.
- **Conclusion**: Silicon carbide is a covalent carbide.

5. **Analyzing Beryllium Carbide (Be₂C)**:
- Beryllium (Be) is an alkaline earth metal, and carbon (C) is a non-metal.
- The bond between Be and C is ionic due to the transfer of electrons from Be to C.
- **Conclusion**: Beryllium carbide is an ionic carbide.

### Final Answer:
After analyzing all options, the only carbide that exhibits covalent bonding is **Silicon Carbide (SiC)**. Therefore, the correct answer is **option 3: Silicon Carbide**.

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